2017: To The Roots

2017 is a Significant Year

• 100 years since Balfour Declaration (1917)
• 70 years since UN Partition of Palestine (1947)
• 50 years since Al-Naksa/Six days war (1967)
• 30 years since 1st Intifada (1987)
• 10 years since Israel blockade on Gaza (2007)

The list above contains years marked by pain and suffering for Palestinian people. We could dwell on this, or we could change the conversation, and recognize all of the ways in which courageous, committed Palestinians in the community have taken responsibility to act for justice over these past years. There is much tragedy in our past, but there are also achievements for peace and justice that deserve celebration.

Bet Lahem Live 2017, To the Roots, will take us back to the roots of our community’s resilience and bravery in the face of oppression. The festival will commemorate the anniversary of these painful years by highlighting our community’s past achievements towards a better future. Stories of local Palestinian determination and resilience give us courage. From these powerful roots, we can receive nourishment to blossom into a better future.

“Bet Lahem Live is a place to cultivate the roots of the community’s past achievements, and [from there], to bloom social justice, innovation, acceptance, respect & love.” — Dani Abilas, Festival Communications Manager

Join us for Bet Lahem Live 2017, To the Roots! Let’s come together, celebrate the past achievements of those in our community, our roots — and inspire one another to keep growing.